Simplified analytical solution of buried pipeline subjected to pipe bursting underneath

Abstract

An existing old buried pipe can be replaced with a new pipe by static pipe bursting technique without the conventional cut and cover method. The pipe bursting method involves less excavation and hence less disturbance on the ground surface in terms of social activities. However, ground heave is produced during pipe bursting operation, and it may have significant influence on the surrounding underground structure. In this regard, the present study investigated the impact of ground movement resulting from static pipe bursting on adjacent buried pipeline through simplified closed-form analytical solution. For analytical solution, Gaussian error function is used to replicate the ground deformation pattern induced from pipe bursting. Further, the pipe (Euler beam) is modelled as linear elastic isotropic material, and the soil is considered as single-parameter linear elastic foundation (Winkler foundation). The proposed closed-form analytical analysis is validated with the results procured from an earlier full-scale experimental study. From the comparative study, it is perceived that the analytical formulation provides overestimation in results but within the acceptable limit. The present analysis will be helpful in the initial design stage to understand the behavior of buried pipeline subjected to ground deformation induced from pipe bursting underneath. Further, the method involves less time and less complexity as compared to three-dimensional finite-element-based numerical or rigorous experimental study.